PURPOSE
The Director of Data is a pivotal role within the organization, responsible for providing leadership and strategic direction to senior managers and heads of sub-teams. This role requires full accountability for the performance and results of multiple sub-teams or a large, strategically important team. The Director of Data plays a key role in contributing to the overall strategy of the department, ensuring that planning, staffing, and budgeting are effectively managed.
ROLES AND EXPECTATIONS
Leadership and Direction
• Provides leadership and direction through senior managers and heads of sub-teams that report into this role.
• Develops a clear vision for the data team, aligning it with the organization’s overall mission and goals.
• Fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence within the data team.
• Mentors and develops senior managers, ensuring they have the skills and support needed to lead their respective teams effectively.
Performance and Results Accountability
• Holds full accountability for the performance and results of multiple sub-teams or a large, strategically important team.
• Sets and monitors key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the data team.
• Implements continuous improvement processes to enhance team performance and outcomes.
• Addresses performance issues promptly and effectively, ensuring that all team members contribute to the organization’s success.
Strategic Contribution
• Contributes to the development and implementation of the overall strategy for the department.
• Identifies opportunities for leveraging data to drive business insights and innovation.
• Works closely with other senior leaders to ensure data strategies support and enhance broader organizational goals.
• Stays abreast of industry trends and best practices to keep the organization at the forefront of data management and analytics.
Planning, Staffing, and Budgeting
• Holds overall control of the planning, staffing, and budgeting processes for the team.
• Develops and manages the team’s budget, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively and within budgetary constraints.
• Oversees the recruitment, training, and development of data team members to build a high-performing team.
• Plans and prioritizes projects and initiatives to align with organizational goals and maximize the impact of the data team.
Stakeholder Management
• Engages with executive stakeholders as well as peers to ensure alignment and support for data initiatives.
• Communicates data strategies, progress, and outcomes to executive leadership and other key stakeholders.
• Builds and maintains strong relationships with internal and external partners to enhance the organization’s data capabilities.
• Represents the data team in cross-functional meetings and projects, advocating for data-driven decision-making.
Strategic Plan Development
• Works with other senior leaders to develop and implement strategic plans that support the organization’s goals.
• Ensures that data strategies are integrated into broader organizational strategies.
• Develops long-term plans for the data team, aligning resources and efforts with future organizational needs and opportunities.
• Conducts regular reviews of the strategic plan to ensure it remains relevant and effective in a changing environment.
Operational Decision-Making
• Makes final decisions on operational matters within the team.
• Ensures that operational processes and procedures are efficient and effective.
• Implements best practices for data management, analytics, and governance.
• Ensures compliance with relevant regulations and standards in all data-related activities.
TECHNICAL & PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE
• Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead and manage senior managers and heads of sub-teams. – ( Essential )
• Strategic Thinking: Strong strategic planning skills and the ability to contribute to the overall strategy of the department. – ( Essential )
• Performance Management: Experience in holding teams accountable for performance and implementing necessary improvement. – ( Essential )
• Budget Management: Expertise in planning, staffing, and budgeting to ensure effective resource allocation. – ( Essential )
• Stakeholder Engagement: Strong skills in managing relationships with executive stakeholders and peers. – ( Essential )
• Operational Excellence: Ability to make final decisions on operational matters and ensure efficient processes. – ( Essential )
• Collaboration: Experience working with senior leaders to develop and implement strategic plans. – ( Essential )
• Data Expertise: In-depth knowledge of data management, analytics, and governance best practices. – ( Essential )
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to convey complex data concepts to non-technical stakeholders. – ( Essential )
• Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify issues and implement effective solutions. – ( Essential )
EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Information Systems, Business Administration, or a related field. – ( Essential )
• Advanced degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) preferred. – ( Desirable )
• Minimum of 10-15 years of experience in data management, analytics, or related fields. – ( Essential )
• At least 5 years of experience in a senior leadership role, managing large teams and complex projects. – ( Essential )
• Proven track record of developing and implementing successful data strategies in a large organization. – ( Essential )
• Extensive experience in customer service delivery and development. – ( Essential )
• Proven success working cross-functionally and contributing to global strategy. – ( Essential )
• Extensive experience in analyzing, interpreting, and presenting complex information, proposing solutions, and implementing plans. – ( Essential )